Lirin often is a source of wisdom that influences the way Kaladin chooses to live his life. He refuses to charge for his practice, no matter what, even when he and his family were finding it difficult to get enough food.

Unlike most Alethi men, Lirin believes war is pointless, and that there is more glory to being a surgeon than there is to being a warrior. For example, a conversation between a young 'Kal' and Lirin goes as follows ...

“

"There are two kinds of people in this world, son. Those who save lives. And those who take lives ... . You can't protect by killing."[1]

During his youth, Lirin was trained in surgery by Vathe, who had studied in Kharbranth and traveled the world as a courier.[3]

He married Hesina, who proved to be a witty and clever woman, and together they had three sons. Kaladin is the eldest, Tien two years younger, and Oroden currently perhaps year old.[2] All three were raised in the town of Hearthstone.

Lirin was the only surgeon in town. He was assisted by his wife and son, Kaladin. Kaladin showed great talent and Lirin trained him in hope of one day sending him to Kharbranth, there to become a master surgeon.[4]

Lirin had made a hobby of predicting storms mathematically. He'd been able to pick the right day eight times out of ten.[5]

Lirin was on good terms with the citylord, BrightlordWistiow, who gave him an incredible sum in spheres - on permanent loan - for his surgeries.[1] Further, they agreed on a union between Kaladin and Laral Wistiow once each had reached their respective day of majority.

Following the death of Wistiow, Lirin tells Kaladin that Wistiow has left his spheres for his education; that his last wish was for Kaladin to go to Kharbranth to become a true master surgeon,[4] then return to Hearthstone. Later, there were rumors that Lirin acquired those spheres dishonestly.

Brightlord Roshone blames Lirin for the loss of his son, after Lirin was unable to save him following a hunting accident.[6] Therefore, it affects Lirin and his family greatly when Roshone is installed as Hearthstone's new citylord.